Important Update: Support at Home Program to Launch November 2025

On 4 June 2025, the Albanese Government announced an important update to Australia’s aged care reforms. As you may have heard, the Support at Home program — the new model for delivering in-home aged care services — was originally scheduled to launch on 1 July 2025. However, following consultation with the sector, the Government has now postponed the start date to 1 November 2025. 

At Lumia Care, we’re here to ensure that our clients, future clients, and their families feel informed and reassured as these changes unfold. 

What Is the Support at Home Program? 

Support at Home is designed to simplify how older Australians access care at home. It will bring together several existing services into a single, streamlined program, making it easier for people to get the right support at the right time. 

The introduction of Support at Home will see two major programs — the Home Care Packages (HCP) program and the Short-Term Restorative Care Program (STRC) — transition into the new model from November 2025. For those receiving services under these programs, this means moving into a system that offers greater flexibility and more personalised care options, all aimed at helping older Australians stay independent, healthy, and socially connected. 

It’s important to note that the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) — which currently provides entry-level support services like help around the house, meals, and social activities — will not transition immediately. The CHSP will continue operating under its existing structure until at least July 2027. This phased approach ensures CHSP clients and providers have more time to adjust before any changes come into effect. 

In summary, if you are currently receiving a Home Care Package or using short-term restorative services, changes will begin for you from November 2025. However, if you are a CHSP client, your services will remain the same for a few more years before a gradual transition is introduced. 

Why the Delay Is Good News 

While change can often feel unsettling, the Government’s decision to delay has been welcomed by aged care advocates and providers alike. This postponement gives everyone — clients, families, and providers — extra time to prepare properly and ensure the transition is smooth. 

As Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae, explains: 

“This is about ensuring the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home is ready for older Australians and their families.” 

Sector leaders have also voiced their support. Craig Gear, CEO of the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN), described the delay as the right decision: 

“We are concerned that the appropriate systems aren’t yet in place to ensure continuity of care during the transition.” 

This additional time allows providers like Lumia Care to refine systems, fully train our staff, and prepare tailored information for clients and families, ensuring everyone is confident and ready when changes do occur. As Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, noted: 

“These are once-in-a-generation reforms, which put older Australians at the centre of aged care.” 

Why Choose Lumia Care During This Transition? 

At Lumia Care, enabling independence is at the heart of everything we do. With more than 66 years of collective expertise — built through trusted names like Colbrow Care, Regal Health, and Meditech — we’ve proudly helped thousands of Australians continue living life their way. 

We recognise that major changes to care programs can feel daunting. That’s why we’ve taken steps to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Lumia Care has set up a dedicated support team to assist you — and your family — through every stage of this transition, no matter where you are on your care journey. 

Here’s what you can expect from us: 

• Ongoing, personalised updates to ensure you’re fully informed based on your unique situation. 

• Guidance to help you navigate future funding options under the new Support at Home model. 

• A seamless transition with no interruptions to the services you rely on. 

• A trusted partnership focused on supporting you as Australia moves toward this new aged care framework. 

If you have questions or feel uncertain about how these changes may affect you, we’re here to help. Whether you are an existing client or exploring in-home care services for the first time, our friendly team is ready to provide clarity and support. 

Existing clients: Please reach out to your case manager. 
New enquiries: Call us at 1300 79 68 76 or email welcome@lumiacare.com.au. 

For more information and official updates, visit: Australian Government Support at Home Resources 

Sources: 

1. Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care – Media Release (4 June 2025): New Aged Care Act to start from 1 November 

2. The Senior – Aged Care Providers Get More Time to Prepare for New Laws: Read the article